Anaheim City Councilman Harry Sidhu and his wife, Gin, hosted a
gala 61st India Independence Day Celebration at their historic Old
Yorba Estate home on Sunday, August 17, 2008, which was attended
by more than 300 guests. A broad representation of prominent elected
officials and civic leaders were in attendance, including:

Among the very special guests present at the event were twelve
members of Orange County’s Pioneering Yorba Family, including
matriarch Margaret Yorba of Anaheim Hills.

The evening began with a ceremonial procession of the U.S. flag
by the Anaheim Police Department Color Guard followed by a hosting
of the flag of India. The U.S. National Anthem was performed by
Nicole Glenn (10th grade student and granddaughter of Anaheim Civic
Leaders Dr. June Glenn and Dr. Hugh Glenn), followed by Ami Khetani
(wife of Ajay Khetani, Investment Advisory Commissioner of Anaheim)
and Mrs. Permjitt Chawla, singing a duet of the Jana Gana Mana –
India’s National Anthem, and Vande Mataram – the National
Song of India.

Entertainment included patriotic, classical, and popular Indian
songs superbly sung by Ketan and Ami Mehta. A “Fusion”
of a classical dance, called Katak with Bollywood moves, was also
joyfully performed by Priya Vallabh, Priya Patel, & Diya Mishra.
And, Viji Prakash – the guru of dance as Founder and Artistic
Director of Shakti Dance Co., introduced her six talented dancers
who thrilled the gathering with their majestic movement and stylistic
performance.

The highlight of the evening was the meaningful speech presented
by the host - Councilman Harry Sidhu, who graciously expressed what
an honor it was to have everyone join “in wonderful celebration
of the true meaning of independence, freedom, liberty, and cultural
diversity.” He thoughtfully explained that, “Occasions
such as this demonstrate why we must continually endeavor to make
a difference in the communities in which we live in the spirit of
these ideals. And, by sharing in these ideals, as we are doing here
tonight, we pave a bright future path to travel together.”
Councilman Sidhu further stated that, “Respect for others,
preserving independence, liberty, and freedom must always be at
the center of our endeavors.”

Notably, Councilman Sidhu said, “I love America, and it continues
to be my privilege and honor to serve as a Councilman in the vibrant
and culturally diverse City of Anaheim – the city of Champions!
It is my goal to continue to make a truthful, living, difference
as an elected official and businessman helping others in all facets
of daily living and in business. Protecting and acting in the best
interests of the taxpayers and improving our quality of living remain
my key objectives.” In closing, Councilman Sidhu gave very
special thanks to his wonderful wife, Gin, for her amazing efforts
in making the event possible, their fantastic kids, Sohina and Rohan,
and his "Mother” (-in-law), Harbhajan Bansal.

For the past four years, Harry Sidhu has served as an Anaheim City
Councilman – the first Indian American to achieve this position.
He is running for re-election to a second term. More information
on his re-election campaign will soon be available on his website:
www.joinharry.com.